If you have AFib, Watchman surgery may help prevent a stroke. Medicare covers this procedure as long as it’s medically necessary. You will still have to pay out-of-pocket costs such as premiums, deductibles, and coinsurance.

Medicare typically covers Watchman surgery under Part A (hospital insurance) if deemed medically necessary for reducing stroke risk in patients with non-valvular atrial fibrillation.

Coverage often requires pre-authorization, and patients may need to meet specific eligibility criteria. Out-of-pocket costs depend on your plan, including deductibles and copayments.

Read on to learn what Medicare covers for Watchman surgery, what you need to know about pre-authorization, and how much it may cost.

Medicare has requirements an individual must meet to qualify for left atrial appendage closure devices, and the Watchman implant device is a type of atrial appendage closure device.

These requirements include:

  • increased risk of stroke
  • inability to take blood thinners as determined by a doctor
  • the procedure must be performed in a hospital with an established structural heart disease (SHD) or electrophysiology (EP) program
  • the procedure must be performed by a cardiologist or electrophysiologist (EP) who specializes in atrial fibrillation

Medicare parts A, B, and C each cover Watchman surgery. Medicare Part A covers your hospital expenses related to Watchman surgery and the device. Medicare Part B covers outpatient services and will cover follow-up appointments, therapy, and other services associated with Watchman surgery.

If you have a Medicare Part C (Medicare Advantage) plan, your cost will depend on the benefits of the plan you chose and your zip code.

The Watchman device manufacturer estimates the out-of-pocket cost of having Watchman surgery to be $2607 in 2024.

This out-of-pocket estimate would include your Medicare Part A deductible, which is $1,676 in 2025, your Part B deductible, which is $257 in 2025, and your 20% coinsurance after you pay your deductible.

Your exact costs may vary depending on your Medicare plan and where you live.

Watchman devices help reduce the risk of stroke for people with AFib. Medicare covers Watchman surgery, the procedure to install the Watchman device, as long as you meet the Medicare requirements.

You will have to pay out-of-pocket expenses like deductibles, coinsurance, and copays.